Abstract: A normally inert coating composition activatable under heat and pressure to form a tacky film and adapted for application to gripping handles of hand-held instruments and comprising a combination of two or more plastic resinous substances, each of which individually forms a continuous film at room temperature. At least one of the resins has a softening point (Ring & Ball) between about 55.degree.-75.degree. C., and at least one of the resins has a higher softening point of between about 90.degree.-120.degree. C. For application, the resins are retained in a solvent solution capable of forming a clear continuous coating which, when pressed or rubbed lightly with hand pressure, will appear smooth and tack-free, but when subjected to body temperature heat and hand pressure, will become tacky. When heat and pressure is removed, the coating will revert to its non-tacky, normally inert state.